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EuroCheapo editors take on the world of budget travel.Mon, 02 Mar 2015 19:51:50 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=4.1.1Planning a trip to Europe? Avoid these 10 costly mistakeshttp://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/planning-a-trip-to-europe-avoid-these-10-costly-mistakes.html
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/planning-a-trip-to-europe-avoid-these-10-costly-mistakes.html#commentsMon, 02 Mar 2015 14:47:55 +0000https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=41091Heading on a trip to Europe this year and deep in the planning stages? Now’s a great time to quickly review your itinerary and “trip strategy” to make sure that you’re not about to make any common mistakes that will add unnecessarily to your travel costs. From hotels to flights, rental cars and train tickets, »Read more

]]>Heading on a trip to Europe this year and deep in the planning stages? Now’s a great time to quickly review your itinerary and “trip strategy” to make sure that you’re not about to make any common mistakes that will add unnecessarily to your travel costs.

From hotels to flights, rental cars and train tickets, there are several things to keep in mind before you hit “book”. Regular readers might recognize a few of these tips from posts in previous years (including last year’s “10 Ways to Save Before Leaving for Europe”). They’ve been included below if they’re still important today, and if they represent a budget travel faux pas worth avoiding.

1. Don’t over-pack your itinerary with too many destinations.

American travelers (myself included) tend to over-pack our itineraries when planning trips to Europe. It’s understandable — for many, vacation days are scarce and trips abroad infrequent. There’s a natural tendency to try to jam as many cities and countries as possible into our trips, as we don’t always know when we’ll be back!

However, this can be costly (not to mention exhausting), as over-packing trips with too many destinations in too few days leads to more time on the road, and more gas or train tickets. In extreme cases, it can sabotage a trip, turning it into a blur of hotel check-ins and check-outs (with constant packing and unpacking), while watching a never-visited landscape race past the car windows. If possible, slow down. You’ll save on transportation and gain more time to explore your destinations.

On Kayak, click into “Multi-city” to search for flights into one city and home from another.

2. Don’t race back to fly home.

When searching for flights from North America to Europe, don’t forget about “multi-city” and “open jaw” tickets. These are flights into one destination and home from another. These tickets often cost about the same amount as simple round-trip flights, but, depending on your itinerary, can save you the hassle and expense of returning to your arrival city.

For example, imagine you’re flying from Atlanta to Paris and then spending 10 days visiting France and Italy, winding up in Rome. You might instinctively book round-trip tickets from Atlanta to Paris, and then try to figure out how to speed from Rome back up to Paris at the end of the trip to fly home. Instead, click into “multiple destinations” or “multi city” when researching flights, and search for Atlanta to Paris, and then Rome to Atlanta. You can often find a flight for about the same price as the simple round-trip airfare.

Note: If you’re planning to rent a car, “open jaw” flight can make rentals a bit trickier and more expensive. It’s almost always cheaper to pick up and drop off the car in the same location, and dropping off in a different country can add a huge fee to your rental (we’re talking about hundreds of euros). However, you could still book an “open jaw,” rent a car for travel in one country, and then switch to train tickets for reaching the last leg of your trip.

3. Don’t assume you need to rent a car from day one.

Many travelers renting a car for their trip instinctively start their rental on the day they arrive, picking it up at the airport. However, if you’re planning to spend at least one day visiting your arrival city, you shouldn’t rent that car until you’re leaving town. This will help you save on the rental and parking, and help preserve your fragile jet-lagged sanity.

For example, imagine that you’re flying into Rome, spending two days visiting the city, and then heading off to explore Italy by car for a week. Start the car rental on the third day of your trip (the day you’re leaving town, not arriving). You’re going to be visiting Roman ruins and the great sights of the central historic city and the Vatican–the last thing you’re going to want to think about (or pay for!) is parking. You’ll be getting around by foot, bus and Metro, or taxi.

The same holds for Paris, Amsterdam, London, Barcelona… really any major city with a well-preserved historic center. Driving your way around the town’s big sights isn’t going to happen (or at least it’s not going to happen twice). That car will wind up in an expensive garage.

Get the car on your way out of town. This will also give you flexibility in terms of pickup location, as rental car agencies offer a wide variety of pickup spots in most major cities, often with many options around the major train stations.

The Hotel de Nice in Paris won’t show up on page one, but it’s worth filtering for.

4. Look past page one for that hotel.

So you’re searching, and searching, and searching for that perfect hotel. Remember when researching on most major hotel reservation websites that the hotel results are often ranked by those that the website wants you to book. In most cases, these “page one” results are hotels that pay the site the highest commission. It’s in the website’s best interest to show you these hotels first.

For budget-minded travelers, this often means looking past these “page one” results, no matter how many bells, whistles, and “Only 1 room left!” freak-out messages they throw at you. Filter by guest rating, neighborhood and price, and start digging around to find the good stuff.

On EuroCheapo, we’re a bit different as we’ve already done this filtering and ranking for you (and we don’t believe in freak-out messages). We list our hotels by “CheapoFactor,” which is a formula that presents the top-rated hotels (including those reviewed by our editors) that have the lowest rates in the most central neighborhood. If you do a hotel search (in the box above or from our homepage) you’ll see these hotels by default.

5. Don’t sacrifice location for small hotel savings.

If you’re struggling to decide between hotels that are within your budget, I recommend giving preference to the hotel with the more central location. Budget travelers in particular have a tendency to choose a hotel in a far-flung location that’s €5 cheaper than one in a more central neighborhood. I’m a strong proponent of paying a bit more for something more central, as you’ll save time and money on transportation (especially if you wind up taking taxis).

You can almost always save by not using a rail pass. Above, Munich’s main station. Photo: jseita

6. Don’t assume that you need to buy a rail pass.

As we’ve mentioned in several posts throughout the years on the blog, European rail passes sold to American travelers usually don’t save you any money. Unless you’re spending most of your travel days taking long-distance high-speed trains, buying a rail pass is probably going be an unnecessary expense.

These days, the official websites of Europe’s main railways (SNCF in France, Trenitalia in Italy, Renfe in Spain, Deutsche Bahn in Germany, among many others) are easily searched in English and offer great deals on high-speed and long-distance trains when booked a few months in advance. Buy these tickets like the locals: Book early and get great discounts.

For example, during my trip to Paris, Munich and Venice last month, I took two trips by train, one high-speed (TGV and ICE) from Paris to Munich, and one Intercity train from Munich to Venice, on a romantic voyage straight through the Alps. Booked directly through the official rail websites about two weeks before the trip, the first ticket cost €74, while the second trip was only €69. These two trips covered several countries and cost only €143 for first-class travel. A rail pass would not have made these more affordable.

Having said that, there are still some reasons why you might want to book a rail pass. They do allow for greater flexibility in your schedule — you can determine your schedule at the last minute and not worry about paying more for the ticket (although you still risk sold-out trains). And yes, if you plan to take a great number of long-distance trains, it can pay for itself. They come with some other benefits, as well, like a new family discount in 2015 that allows two children to travel for free with a Eurail pass-carrying adult.

Been there. Give yourself a break by not over-booking activities before you leave. Photo: prawnpie

7. Don’t pre-book the small stuff.

It’s now easier than ever to pre-book activities in each of the cities you’ll be visiting. You can book museum tickets and passes, walking tours, boat cruises… The list is endless and quite tempting. However, try to remain calm and limit the number of smaller activities that you pre-book, as you risk wasting cash and causing disappointment.

In the fun lead-up to your departure, there’s a tendency to forget about the unplanned realities that always creep into a trip. Things happen, people get tired, blisters form, the weather doesn’t cooperate. Making plans and compiling itineraries is a great idea — but pre-booking every small attraction puts you at the risk of burning out, skipping things and wasting money. You’re not going to know what speed you’re able to travel at until you get on the ground.

Having said that, a couple of high-profile sights are worth pre-booking, especially during high season when their lines could lead to long waits, or worse, not being able to get in. These include tickets to the Eiffel Tower (book in advance through the tower’s website), tickets to the Alhambra in Grenada, and to the Uffizi Gallery in Florence (again, skip the ticket line).

8. Don’t write off guidebooks.

Okay, I know that I’ll hear from detractors on this one, as it’s now fashionable to ditch heavy guidebooks in favor of apps and free information that you can pull up on your phone, tablet and laptop. But I’m here to say that the best guidebooks out there can greatly enrich your trip and yes, can help you save time and cash by allowing you to put away your electronic devices.

When I was in Athens last summer, I spent several days running around town with my Rick Steves‘ guidebook, following their informative (and often humorous) walking tours, getting restaurant advice, and gaining an understanding of how the city worked. That book was my companion, folded, dog-eared, and often tucked under my arm. Its value became doubly-obvious when I witnessed a couple in the ancient Agora trying to read information off of their iPad in the blazing hot sun. It wasn’t happening.

Relying on electronics is risky and can be unnecessarily costly. Batteries die. Sun makes it hard to read. And data charges are incredibly expensive. Don’t underestimate the value that a $20 guidebook provides.

If you plan to use your phone abroad, call your carrier now to check on rates. Photo: yourdon

9. Don’t forget to call your phone carrier.

As we have written in several previous posts, if you plan to use your phone abroad, call your carrier before leaving to discuss your international options. First, you should make sure that your phone works abroad and has been activated for international use. Secondly, you should discuss with your carrier the costs associated with using your phone to place calls, send texts, send emails, and access the internet.

AT&T, for example, has recently changed their international packages, and now offers three “Passport” packages that bundle together unlimited texting, data (to send emails and use the Web), and cheaper calling rates. These packages start at $30 for 30 days–and make good sense for anyone considering using their phone while traveling. (Check out Verizon’s less-generous plan here.)

“Winging it” without knowing how much you’ll be charged is not recommended. Call your carrier, get a plan if you plan to use your phone, and then make sure you set up your phone to avoid accidental data charges (in brief: turn off cellular data and restrict the number of apps that can use cellular data). And, as a plan, stick to free Wi-Fi networks for downloading and sending emails, checking the Web and using apps.

Withdrawing cash from ATM machines like this one in Berlin is almost always cheaper than converting dollars on your own. Photo: skohlmann

10. Don’t waste money getting euros before the trip.

Travelers waste a lot of money purchasing euros from their bank (or worse yet, from a currency exchange counter) before arriving in Europe. In most cases when exchanging money from home before a trip, you will pay dearly in fees, lousy exchange rates, or both. If exchanging a bit makes you more relaxed, go for it–just don’t overdo it.

I often arrive in Europe without a euro in my pocket. I head straight away to an ATM at the airport and withdraw cash using my American ATM card. It’s simple, and the exchange rate that I’m getting for the transaction is almost certainly better than any rate I’d get from my bank back home (especially once fees are factored in). Call your bank before you leave to ask about international ATM transaction fees, as they vary widely depending on the bank, the type of account you have (banks often wave transaction fees for premium accounts), and the type of ATM accessed abroad (your bank may have international locations or partnerships with local banks).

What if there isn’t an ATM at the airport? I’ve never experienced this. I have experienced long lines at the ATM, which has led me to use my credit card for purchases (rail or bus tickets into town, for example), until I found an ATM in the city without a line.

]]>http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/planning-a-trip-to-europe-avoid-these-10-costly-mistakes.html/feed44410915Barcelona: 7 phrases to help you save on your triphttp://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/7-phrases-help-save-money-barcelona.html
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/7-phrases-help-save-money-barcelona.html#commentsTue, 24 Feb 2015 13:58:52 +0000http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=40706Knowing a little Spanish or Catalan can come in handy during a trip to Barcelona. While it’s true that most customer service folks in the city center and at major attractions will speak some English, speaking at least a bit of the local language is always a chance to get closer to the culture and »Read more

]]>Knowing a little Spanish or Catalan can come in handy during a trip to Barcelona. While it’s true that most customer service folks in the city center and at major attractions will speak some English, speaking at least a bit of the local language is always a chance to get closer to the culture and have a richer travel experience.

It can also be a way to save. There are certain words posted on signs at ticket offices, Metro stops, and on menus that non-Spanish and Catalan speakers’ eyes would glaze over, missing an opportunity on a discount or deal.

With that in mind, here are seven words and phrases that you should look out for in Barcelona, as they might help you unlock some savings.

A quick note about bargaining

Bargaining at the marketplace is not common in Barcelona. If you try to low-ball vendors, you will probably be met with confused or irritated looks. The price listed is the price you pay in Spain, but this doesn’t mean that there are not deals to be had. Read on to find out how to save.

1. “Rebajas”: Sales

From January 7 until the end of February, and again in July to the end of August, there are great discounts to be found in Barcelona shops. Rebajas means “sales,” and you’ll want to keep your eyes open for “rebajas” signs in boutique windows. The best deals are found in clothing and shoe shops, though other emporiums often extend price cuts, too. It is not the norm to have ongoing sales throughout the year in Barcelona. Instead, plan to shop until you drop during these four special months where items can be found for up to 70% off.

2. “Entradas reducidas”: Reduced price tickets

Depending on your age and what you do, you may be able to snag a discount when visiting many of Barcelona’s museums. Entradas are tickets and Entradas reducidas are tickets at a reduced price.

For example, at the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC), students (estudiantes) get 30% off the €12 ticket price, as do those with a Barcelona library card (Biblioteques de Barcelona – free to sign up for). If you buy a pass on the Bus Turístic or Barcelona City Tour you’ll get 20% off the ticket into MNAC. Look for similar deals at other museums.

3. “Entradas gratuitas”: Free entry

Even better than a discounted ticket is a free ticket. Look for information about entradas gratuitas at museums throughout town. Note that most museums have a few days a year when entrance fees are waived.

In the case of MNAC, it’s free to get in every Saturday after 3 pm, the first Sunday of each month all day, February 12, May 18, September 11, and September 24. Also, anyone under 16 gets into the MNAC for free year round. Again, it pays to take a look at museum websites and see what they have listed under entradas gratuitas, though most will be similar to the MNAC’s offerings.

Save on lunch (or dinner) when you order the “Menu del Dia”. Photo: wojtekgurak

4. “Menú del día”: Daily lunch special

This is one of my personal faves and a bargain I frequently take advantage of. From Monday to Friday most restaurants in Barcelona offer a menú del día from 1 to 4 pm. The menú del día is more or less the daily lunch special, and usually includes three courses, bread, and a drink (wine!) for under €15. The same amount of food during dinner service will cost at least twice that amount. I especially like indulging in a menú del día at posh eateries that would otherwise be too pricey. I may not always be able to splurge and drop €100 on dinner and wine at a fancy-pants spot like Monvínic, but I can afford their €19.50 menú del día.

Note: It is uncommon to find a menú del día on the weekends (though some restaurants will offer it), and if a restaurant does not have a menú del día midweek, then you’re probably better off going somewhere else.

5. “Mayores de 60″: Older than 60

If you’re over the age of 60, there are price cuts to be had at museums and also on public transportation. For example, those over 65 get into the MNAC for free.

And it’s not just museums: if you’re older than 60 and staying in Barcelona for several months (or live here), you can pay €3.90 for a 10-trip metro ticket instead of €10 when you carry a “Targeta Rosa” card. The Targeta Rosa gets the user all sorts of discounts on public transportation and more. Because you have to be registered in the city to use the Targeta Rosa, this deal will only be useful for those who are staying in Barcelona for several months.

TMB/Metro also offers discounts to young people (under 25) and students. From their website: “If you are under 25, you can buy a T-Jove ticket, which lets you make an unlimited number of journeys over 90 consecutive days. You can buy a T-Jove at ticket machines at metro stations. You will need to enter your ID card number or that of any other official ID document (passport, driver’s license). You must have this ID document with you whenever you use your T-Jove.” See more about metro ticket bargains on the TMB website.

6. “Familias numerosas”: Savings for large families

If you’re traveling with children, you may be able to save some big bucks. Familias numerosas means large families, and often times parents will have to pay for tickets but children will get in for free or at a very reduced rate. Special rates are also available for single parents. For example, at the Catalonia History Museum parents with one child or more pay a reduced rate of €2 instead of €4.50 per person. At the Barcelona History Museum (MUHBA Plaça del Rei) “familias numerosas” pay just €5 instead of €7.

7. “Ofertas en Atrapalo”: Online deals

Another way to say “sale” or “deal” in Spanish is oferta. One of the best sites in Barcelona, and across Spain, to look for ofertas is Atrapalo.com. It’s only available in Spanish, so you’ll need to have some grasp of the language to use the website. Atrapalo puts up ofertas for flights, car rentals, restaurant deals, and vacation getaways, but I tend to use them for discount tickets to events such as theater and concerts. Many times they will have tickets to Spanish guitar concerts for €15 instead of €23, and I’ve seen up to 50% off on some performances. If you’re interested in catching a show in Barcelona, it’s worth scrolling through Atrapalo first.

Note that you need access to a printer to use their ofertas, as you’ll have to print off your passes. Most hotels will be able to do this for you. Another site which lists deals in English is Money Saver Spain, though their deals are more general than Atrapalo’s.

Final Tip: Make sure there’s a price

One last word of advice: If there are no prices on a menu or a product, beware. It’s rare, but some unscrupulous shop keepers and restaurant owners might raise the price for tourists. When in doubt, ask to see a menu with the prices on it.

Your ways to save?

]]>http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/7-phrases-help-save-money-barcelona.html/feed00407064810 reasons to visit London in 2015http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/reasons-to-visit-london-in-2015.html
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/reasons-to-visit-london-in-2015.html#commentsTue, 17 Feb 2015 14:07:54 +0000http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=40851London is a lively city year in and year out, every season bringing with it new openings, events, and activities. 2015 is set to be no different, so whether you’re planning a first time visit or a return to a city you know and love, here are 10 reasons why you should plan a visit »Read more

1. Peruse the V&A’s new galleries

The Europe 1600-1800 Galleries have just opened their doors at London’s V&A Museum. The project has involved the transformation of seven galleries into a fresh new space in which over 1,000 pieces of 17th and 18th century art and design are displayed. What’s more, admission is free, so there’s no excuse not to take a peek!

2. Get to know Sherlock Holmes

Baker Street’s most famous character and his life in Victorian London will be explored in depth at this special exhibition entitled “Sherlock Holmes: The man who never lived and will never die.” Open now until April 12, 2015.

A new budget-friendly Z Hotel is coming to Shoreditch at The Bower mixed-use complex. Photo: Courtesy of The Bower

3. Chic city sleeps on a budget

Z Hotels’ cool mix of modern design and affordable room rates is the ideal combo for travelers on a budget who don’t want to scrimp on comfort and style. So we’re super excited about the opening of the new Z Hotel in Shoreditch in March 2015, which is set to follow the boutique-budget mantra of its three other London properties, offering 107 stylish compact rooms in one of the city’s most exciting neighborhoods. The hotel will be located in the new multi-use complex called The Bower Old Street.

4. 800th Anniversary of the Magna Carta

To celebrate 800 years since the granting of the Magna Carta, the British Library is running a series of events between March 13 and September 1, 2015. The charter was originally issued by King John of England to try and make peace with rebel barons, but over the past 800 years it has come to symbolize the foundation of modern day democracy. The main exhibition, Law, Legacy and Liberty, should be booked in advance and tickets cost £12.

5. Shaun the Sheep arrives in London

Wallace and Gromit fans will be in their element following the “Shaun the Sheep Trail” which sees over 100 “Shauns” placed in locations around central London to celebrate the launch of Shaun’s very own movie, and the Chinese Year of the Sheep between March 28 and May 25, 2015. If you miss the London trail, you can catch it in Bristol over the summer.

Les Enfants Terribles will take you “Underground” at Waterloo Station.

6. Immersive theater at its best

Forward thinking theatre company, Les Enfants Terribles, are back in the capital this year with an immersive theatre production of “Alice’s Adventures Underground” that is sure to be out of this world. Held at the Vaults underneath Waterloo station between April 2 and May 31, guests will make a simple choice at the start of their evening; “Eat Me” or “Drink Me”, and from then on their evening will unfurl in different directions as they journey through Wonderland.

7. Hampton Court Palace turns 500

To celebrate 500 years since construction began on this beloved palace, a number of exciting events will be taking place, including a sleepover on March 21 and a huge party over Easter weekend (April 3 – 5) with live Tudor and Baroque music, traditional food, and a spectacular son et lumiere show.

8. The Lyric Theatre reopens with a bang

Pies at the ready—the Lyric Theatre in Hammersmith will reopen its doors this spring after refurbishment for an oh-so-exciting run of “Bugsy Malone”, the first professional theater production of this family-friendly classic in over a decade. Performances from April 11 until August 1, 2015.

9. Ode to Damien Hirst

Newport Street, SE1 6AY (website still to launch)

Scheduled to open in May 2015, the enormous Newport Street Gallery will fill a whopping five buildings with Damien Hirst’s private contemporary art collection, housing over 2,000 pieces in total, including original works by Banksy and Francis Bacon. Even better news for modern art lovers? This exciting exhibit will offer free entry.

Wembley Stadium will be hosting World Cup Ruby this year. Photo: Ben Sutherland

10. Rugby World Cup kicks off in London

Wembley, Twickenham and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Stadium

From September 18 through October 31, 2015, Rugby fans can rejoice as the World Cup arrives. Matches will be played at different venues across the UK, three of which are in London, where the semifinal and final will also be played. If you can’t get tickets, then don’t despair, because London’s pubs will be even more lively than usual on match days.

]]>http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/reasons-to-visit-london-in-2015.html/feed0040851734 easy ways to save on train tickets in Germanyhttp://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/budget-tips-german-trains.html
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/budget-tips-german-trains.html#commentsWed, 11 Feb 2015 18:00:52 +0000http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=40806Whether you are going to Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, or any other city, traveling by rail in Germany is usually a pleasure—except where your pocketbook is concerned. It pays to think about saving on your ground transportation costs before you even arrive in Germany. In this article, we’ll show you four simple ways to cut the »Read more

]]>Whether you are going to Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, or any other city, traveling by rail in Germany is usually a pleasure—except where your pocketbook is concerned.

It pays to think about saving on your ground transportation costs before you even arrive in Germany. In this article, we’ll show you four simple ways to cut the cost of your rail travel dramatically.

1. Book early on the Bahn website.

The only sure-fire method of saving money on German trains is to book your travel as early as possible directly through the website of the German railway, Deutsche Bahn (bahn.de).

You can score deals as low as €19 on long-distance or international connections, if you are among the first to make reservations. When you are certain of your travel dates, there is nothing to be gained by waiting. As time passes and the cheapest tickets sell out, each further contingent costs €10 more for the exact same trip.

If you allow a certain amount of flexibility in your travel times, you may find, for example, an early morning connection that is available at a lower price, so it is worthwhile to search various times of day before booking. The downside to this method: you are stuck with a specific train time and route and these tickets are generally non-refundable.

If you will be traveling by train frequently, consider a BahnCard 25. Photo: Namics

2. Research a BahnCard

If you plan to make at least two full-price train trips within Germany, purchasing a BahnCard 25 may well save you money, as it gives you a 25% discount on every trip you book.

However, before buying a card, consider these points:

1. Do the math yourself. Do the savings on your tickets outweigh the cost of the BahnCard at all? A trial BahnCard 25 (valid for three months) is currently available for €15. If there is no trial card available, an annual card costs €62. For the former, you save once your total ticket purchases per person have surpassed €60, but for the latter, you must spend over €248 to see any savings.

2. Be prepared to cancel. The BahnCard is a subscription service, meaning that it automatically renews and is billed to you if you do not cancel it in time (typically six weeks before it is due to expire). At the time you purchase your BahnCard, you should also submit a cancellation notice through the online customer service forms of the DB website. You can find a detailed German description of the process here, including the cancellation request text in German, which you can simply copy and paste into your message. Be sure to include your BahnCard number and use the email address associated with your DB registration.

Traveling with 5 people or more can help cut your train costs. Photo: Daisuke M.

3. Buy “group tickets” and save.

Groups of travelers will have their savings amplified by traveling on group ticket offers which utilize regional trains rather than high-speed (ICE) trains. This method is most profitable and least tedious for travel within one German state or region—such as a group day trip from Munich to Salzburg, Austria (€43 for 5 people) on the Bayern-Ticket or from Berlin to Szeczin, Poland (€29 for 5 people) on the Berlin-Brandenburg-Ticket. You can find full details of the regional ticket offers for the states you’ll be visiting here.

If your travel includes more than one state, you’ll likely have to buy a Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket for weekday travel or a Schönes-Wochenende-Ticket for weekend travel. These tickets are valid from 9 am to 3 am the following day for any regional train in the entire country. The QdL ticket starts at €44 for one traveler, but less than double that for up to five people—a five-person group spends around €15 per person to ride the rails. The weekend ticket has better conditions for less money: The price starts at €40 for a single traveler, but five people pay just €12 euros each for travel from midnight of the day of travel until 3 am the following morning.

That said, you should be clear that regional trains have neither the speed nor the service standard of IC/EC or ICE trains. For example, compare the following travel times:

You should consider carefully whether the price difference alone justifies losing most of a valuable travel day to slower trains. If you go for it, don’t forget to pack yourself and your crew enough reading material, food, and drink for the entire length of your journey!

Running behind schedule? You might be able to get some money back. Photo: David Kirsch

4. Get a refund if you arrive late.

Consumer protection laws in Germany require the Deutsche Bahn to refund part of your ticket costs if your train is delayed over an hour. For any train arriving more than 60 minutes late, you are entitled to a refund of 25% of your ticket price; for trains over 120 minutes late, you are entitled to 50% of your ticket price.

When you arrive at your destination, have your late arrival “verified” (i.e., stamped on your ticket) by the train station service personnel. If it’s not too late, fill out the required refund form (available from train service personnel or at train station service counters), and turn in your ticket for an immediate cash refund.

If you need your ticket for return travel, turn everything in at any other train station service counter later in your trip. While you officially have six months to request your refund, getting your money back becomes more complicated once you’ve left the country, so take care of it prior to your departure back home.

]]>http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/budget-tips-german-trains.html/feed004080682A London Pub Tradition: The Sunday roasthttp://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/london-sunday-roast.html
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/london-sunday-roast.html#commentsSun, 08 Feb 2015 18:00:39 +0000http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=40725While Brits are not famed for their culinary finesse, there is one dish that most would take with them to a desert island—the Sunday Roast. London is famed for its pub culture of pints and conversation, and many of these taverns also serve good food. Sunday afternoons is when the kitchen creates a tasty feast »Read more

]]>While Brits are not famed for their culinary finesse, there is one dish that most would take with them to a desert island—the Sunday Roast.

London is famed for its pub culture of pints and conversation, and many of these taverns also serve good food. Sunday afternoons is when the kitchen creates a tasty feast that brings out locals of all ages. Best of all, you can get a filling plate at Cheapo-approved prices. Most pubs charge around £10 to £15 for a roast with all the fixings.

Here’s a rundown of the history, what to expect, and where to enjoy a delicious Sunday roast in London.

History of this culinary tradition

There are many different beliefs as to when this tradition started. The original idea of feasting on a joint of beef on a Sunday is said to date back to Medieval times, when village serfs were rewarded with a hearty meal by their masters each week. The tradition continued into King Henry VII’s reign, when his royal guardsmen used to feast on roast beef every Sunday after church (which apparently earnt them the name they still carry today—Beefeaters!).

But the version of the Sunday Roast most similar to what we find on our plates today has its roots in the 18th century, during the industrial revolution, when families in Yorkshire would leave a joint of meat in the oven before going to church every Sunday. On returning home, families would sit together and tuck into the best meal of the week.

A typical Sunday roast with gravy and all the trimmings at Victoria Inn. Photo: Ewan Munro

What’s on the plate?

So what to expect of a modern day Sunday roast? While a tender joint of roast beef teamed with spicy horseradish sauce and sweet redcurrant jelly continues to be popular, equally common today is a juicy roast chicken, roast lamb with mint sauce, or roast pork with apple sauce (and plenty of crackling!).

A good roast should always be accompanied by crispy roast potatoes and parsnips and steamed vegetables such as carrots and broccoli. If you want to try a Yorkshire pudding (beautiful and highly calorific side dish made from batter), you’ll normally find this served with beef, although it is becoming increasingly normal to find them served with other meats as well. To complete the dish, drizzle over some delicious gravy—a flavorsome sauce made from the juices of your roast meat.

Where to enjoy a Sunday roast

Today most British pubs and restaurants serve Sunday Roasts, eager to fulfill demand from friends and families who want to keep the tradition alive but can’t spare the time to cook one up themselves. So if you don’t have a local family home to gatecrash on a Sunday, you’ll have no problem finding a restaurant to sample one in. Do be warned though that they vary in quality, so take our advice and veer away from the cheap as chips offerings in a Wetherspoons pub and spend a few more pounds on a better quality plate of food.

]]>http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/london-sunday-roast.html/feed004072573Cheapo Interview: 5 questions for Nomadic Matthttp://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/cheapo-interview-5-questions-nomadic-matt.html
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/cheapo-interview-5-questions-nomadic-matt.html#commentsFri, 06 Feb 2015 12:22:51 +0000http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=40951Matthew Kepnes, known to his thousands of daily blog readers and social media followers as “Nomadic Matt,” has spent nearly 10 years traveling the world on a budget and sharing his adventures along the way. An updated version of his 2013 book, “How to Travel the World on $50 a Day”, was released this past »Read more

]]>Matthew Kepnes, known to his thousands of daily blog readers and social media followers as “Nomadic Matt,” has spent nearly 10 years traveling the world on a budget and sharing his adventures along the way. An updated version of his 2013 book, “How to Travel the World on $50 a Day”, was released this past month, with new tips and tricks for saving on the road.

We recently sat down with Matt to discuss the book and talk about budget travel.

What advice do you have for people who say they can’t afford to travel to Europe?

There’s this false idea that Europe is expensive, but Europe is a big place with a lot of variation in prices. It’s not uniform. While Zurich, London, Oslo, or Paris might be expensive, there are always cheaper alternatives and countless other options.

Most people never see past Western Europe, but when you do, your options open up! And now, with the fall of the euro, it’s never been a cheaper time to visit the continent. Go. It’s not as expensive as you believe.

Okay, so which destinations in Eastern Europe do you find to be the best value?

I think Bulgaria, Romania, and countries in the Balkans are really good value countries. Hungary is another one. Your dollar goes very far there.

Outside of Eastern Europe, another great country that not a lot of people think about is Greece. It’s always been a very cheap country and the depressed economy has only made it cheaper. Now, with the fall of the euro, it’s become an even better bargain.

Despite a strong dollar, flights to Europe remain really expensive. How do you fly cheaply to Europe?

Airlines aren’t going to lower their fares because they are finally making money. However, the last few years has seen the rise of a lot of Transatlantic budget airlines so that is the best way to get across the pond on a budget. Fly Aer Lingus, Wow! Air, or Norwegian. Those are the best options as airlines aren’t going to really lower their high fuel surcharges.

Moreover, try to use a search engine like Google Flights to see which airports in Europe have the cheapest flights and fly into them. You can then hop a cheap flight to your final destination as Europe is filled with budget airlines.

In your book, you suggest that rail passes are a great option for Americans traveling abroad, but we usually feel otherwise. Do you actually find that they can save you money?

Rail passes aren’t as amazing of a deal as they were five or ten years ago. They have a lot of new rules with them and it requires you to really work out the math ahead of time. I think rail passes are really good if you are taking long, high speed trains and want to leave your schedule open (there is value in that). But if you are just going to one or just a couple of countries, I don’t think they are a good idea.

As a nomadic traveler, you probably spend a lot of time traveling on the road alone. Do you ever get lonely? How do you deal with that?

I don’t ever really get lonely. In fact, most of the time, I enjoy being by myself. You meet a lot of people on the road and make a lot of new friends, so you are always doing things and going out. I think the idea that solo travelers are lonely travelers is overblown. It’s a topic I’ve written about before.

You are hardly ever alone. There’s just too many other people out there.

]]>http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/cheapo-interview-5-questions-nomadic-matt.html/feed0040951515 reasons to visit Spain in 2015http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/15-reasons-to-visit-spain-2015.html
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/15-reasons-to-visit-spain-2015.html#commentsTue, 03 Feb 2015 16:18:51 +0000http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=40882Do you really need more than one reason to visit Spain? Its beaches, an incredible culinary scene, friendly citizens, and a plethora of UNESCO World Heritage Sites have long enticed travelers from all around the globe. Made up of islands, rugged mountains, bustling metropolises, and quiet hill villages, there is a little something for everyone within »Read more

]]>Do you really need more than one reason to visit Spain? Its beaches, an incredible culinary scene, friendly citizens, and a plethora of UNESCO World Heritage Sites have long enticed travelers from all around the globe. Made up of islands, rugged mountains, bustling metropolises, and quiet hill villages, there is a little something for everyone within Spain’s borders.

Throw in a falling euro and a host of budget-friendly destinations across the country, and you have one of Europe’s greatest treasures. However, just in case you’re still unconvinced, here are 15 reasons to pack your luggage and head to Iberia in 2015.

1. Carnaval in Gran Canaria

Carnaval is like Mardi Gras in Spain, and will be celebrated in style February 13-21, 2015. Gran Canaria Island is an unmatched destination to dress up in costume and join the wild soirée because its celebration is one of the most spirited in Spain and the weather is warm—the Canary Islands are closer to Africa than Spain, and enjoy springtime weather year-round!

2. Tapas and art in Bilbao

Set on a river in the Basque Country, Bilbao is often passed up for San Sebastian, but both cities are worth visiting. Bilbao offers up a delicious tapas and pintxos scene in the old town neighborhoods. You can nibble as you bar hop for a tasty and affordable dinner. Plus, the Guggenheim Museum is found in Bilbao, the silvery and swooping building by Frank Gehry. Admission is €10 for this world famous attraction.

3. Las Fallas Festival in Valencia

From March 15-19, Valencia, a vibrant city on Spain’s southern Mediterranean coastline, comes alive with the annual Las Fallas celebration. The festival revolves around creating enormous sculptures from papier-mâché, and then burning them (about 700 sculptures in all) to ash on the last day of the celebration. The sculptures are called “fallas,” and some of them cost up to €300K to create.

Cheapos will love that Las Fallas is a free event open to all. Expect lots of fireworks, firecrackers, noise, late night merrymaking, food, drink, and of course, smoke and flames on the last night.

4. Semana Santa in Seville

Easter Holy Week is observed throughout Spain, but Seville is one of the best cities to partake in this religious celebration. Solemn, dramatic, traditional, and a major tourist draw, Easter Holy Week (Semana Santa) will be held this year from the March 29 – April 5, 2015. If you plan to be in Seville for the week-long event, make sure to book a hotel room way in advance.

5. Volcano climbing in Tenerife

Head to Tenerife Island, one of the Canary Islands near Africa, not just because the weather is always around 70ºF, but because in its center is Teide, a beautiful volcano. At 3,718 meters above sea level, Teide is the highest point in Spain. You can visit the crater and hike around its base along several well-marked trails. Only a few visitors can tour the crater each day, and access depends on the weather, so make sure book your pass ahead of time online.

6. Feria de Abril in Seville

The biggest bash in Seville is the Feria de Abril, or April Fair, held this year from April 21-26, 2015. For many, the classic image of Spain is portrayed during this week-long fair. Women are dressed to impress in tight “traje de gitana” dresses and men look handsome in suits and ties. This is a formal party, so if you go, do dress up. Dancing, eating, drinking sherry, and taking carriage rides are all part of the fun.

While the Feria de Abril is open to all, be aware that some of the “casetas,” or small houses, are private and invitation only. Locals in Seville love this celebration and spend months preparing for it and a week recovering from it.

7. Local eats in Madrid

Madrid is often overshadowed by Barcelona when it comes to food, but the two cities should be placed in separate categories. Madrid and Barcelona have very different geographies (Madrid is landlocked, Barcelona is on the seaside), different climates, and different cultures. Madrid’s location in the center of the country and cold winters mean meat-heavy dishes and lots of succulent strews.

8. Temps de Flors in Girona

Located about an hour from Barcelona by train, Girona is a stunning cobblestone city with Roman roots at the foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains. Each year in May, locals decorate the streets with elaborate carpets and sculptures made of flowers. The festival is free to attend, and it’s best to get there early in the week when the flowers are at their freshest. Temps de Flors will be held from May 9-17, 2015.

9. Walking El Camino

Walking El Camino, or The Way of Saint James, has become increasingly popular in the last few years. Does it have something to do with the Emilio Estevez movie, The Way? Trekking all of the trail, or just a portion of it (many pilgrims just do the last 110 km), promises an amazing experience in a lush region of Spain which is often overlooked. The end of the trail is Santiago de Compostela, which is a university city and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

10. Patios Festival in Córdoba

Homes in Córdoba are built around verdant patios which are concealed behind walls most of the year. In May, locals open up their homes and display beautiful flower-clad patios to the public. This year this fragrant fest will be held May 4-17.

11. Spain’s top nightlife in Madrid

There’s a constant rivalry between Madrid and Barcelona: Which city is better? When it comes to soccer, food, art, architecture, and fashion, everyone has an opinion. But there is one thing that locals in Madrid do better, and that’s having a night out on the town. Madrileños are famous for their “marcha” or ability to party ’til the cows come home. If you want lively bars, clubs, and a population of people who love to get down, there is no better city in Spain than Madrid.

12. Sant Joan festival in Barcelona

Sant Joan kicks off beach season on the Mediterranean falling roughly around the summer solstice. On the night of June 23rd, residents head down to the city’s shoreline to have bonfires, light firecrackers, and eat dinnertime picnics. Dancing, booze, and skinny-dipping are rampant.

13. Hiking in Picos de Europa

This emerald area of Northern Spain gets almost no love. Not many outside of Spain know about Asturias or its national park, Los Picos de Europa. If you want to get way off the sand and sangria tourist trail and experience tiny hamlets, pungent cheeses, tangy cider, and some exceptional hiking, head to the Asturias region. Trails into Los Picos will take you past alpine lakes and quiet mountainsides where a handful of dwindling shepherds tend to their flocks.

Laid-back bliss on Ibiza. Photo by Regina W Bryan.

14. Ibiza for Island Bliss

An island with a reputation (deserved) for being a clubber’s paradise and 24/7 party place, Ibiza is more than discos, drugs, and cheap booze. In fact, the island has long been home to part of Spain’s hippy scene and still has a lot to offer those searching for an alternative lifestyle. Ibiza teems with yoga retreats, arts and crafts markets, hidden beaches, and campgrounds that look like the overspill area from a Grateful Dead concert. To find the peaceful side of Ibiza stay clear of Playa en Bossa, home to the big clubs and the airport.

15. Primavera Sound in Barcelona

Many music festivals are held in Barcelona each year, but Primavera Sound is one of the most popular, bringing in fans from all over Europe for the three-day show. If you buy tickets in advance you get a discount, otherwise, tickets go for about €200. Expect The Black Keys, Anthony and the Johnsons, and many other bands to perform from May 28-30, 2015.

Whatever reason you choose to visit Spain, keep the season and what festivals will be on in mind. Prices and crowds increase in July and August, and anytime there is a festival you should book accommodations in advance. October to May is low-season in Spain, and there are deals to be had on hotels, rental cars, and flights.

]]>http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/15-reasons-to-visit-spain-2015.html/feed114088248When is the best time of the year to visit Paris?http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/best-time-year-visit-paris.html
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/best-time-year-visit-paris.html#commentsThu, 29 Jan 2015 09:32:50 +0000http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=40858“Paris is always a good idea,” Audrey Hepburn told us in the 1954 film, “Sabrina”. I may be biased, but of course I agree. Winter, spring, summer or fall, there’s never a bad time to come to Paris, just better times for some travelers depending on your budget and what attractions you want to see. »Read more

]]>“Paris is always a good idea,” Audrey Hepburn told us in the 1954 film, “Sabrina”. I may be biased, but of course I agree. Winter, spring, summer or fall, there’s never a bad time to come to Paris, just better times for some travelers depending on your budget and what attractions you want to see.

The shoulder seasons, the period in the fall or early spring that’s wedged between high season and low season, might offer lower prices and decent weather, but this doesn’t always mean it’s the best season to go. “I would say that the best time to come to Paris depends on what you want to do,” said Heather Stimmler-Hall, editor of Secrets of Paris and author of “Naughty Paris: A Lady’s Guide to the Sexy City”.”

Depending on your priorities, budget travelers can win in any season. Let’s discuss the pros and cons of visiting Paris during the four seasons.

I love Paris in the springtime…

Visit in the spring (late March to May) for the Paris that people sing songs about. Sure it can be wet and icky, but once that sun starts to come out and play, Parisians are on a euphoric crash course for the summertime. All of the sins of winter are quickly forgotten.

You can push the picnic season with some wine along the Seine, or at least enjoy a comfortable evening on a café terrace. You can run the Paris Marathon or maybe just cheer (me!) from the sides. The city starts to come alive again, and you’ll be here before the summer prices start to jump.

Just avoid the spring break in April when it seems all of Europe descends upon Paris. Though after Easter, there are a few leftover chocolate eggs at a discount.

A lovely autumn day along Canal Saint-Martin. Photo: Craig Nelson

I love Paris in the fall…

Visit in the fall (September to mid-November) for gorgeous weather, thinner crowds, and some great events. The Salon du Chocolat, Journée de la Patrimoine, and Nuit Blanche all occur at this time of the year, allowing you to participate in some of the city’s best events during your stay.

And then there’s the fall foliage in the Père Lachaise cemetery—just try to beat it. Paris feels fresh and renewed as everyone is getting back into the grove after a busy summer (and an August break), and all restaurants and attractions are on a normal schedule.

As for prices, September is still considered “high season” for traveling to Paris, making hotel rates at their peak. However, rates quickly fall as you head into October. (Just avoid fall fashion week, this year Sept 30-October 7.)

The downside? Picnic season is over, weather can go from hot to cold, but that’s about it in my book. At least you can walk all over the city without having to feel guilty about heading into a museum.

Even in the winter rain, the beauty of Paris shines through. Photo: Pluja

I love Paris in the winter, when it drizzles…

Visit in the winter (late November to early March), and you’ll have to bundle up in Paris. But who doesn’t like scarves, right?

Prices spike around Christmas, but this doesn’t mean you can’t find a deal. The Christmas lights and markets all around town also add a bit of magic to the city during the often frigid days.

The sky never seems to open up in January or February, but this is primo time for visiting the museums and galleries that help make Paris so famous. Or take in some shopping during the twice annual soldes(nation-wide sales) that happen in January.

And did we mention the seemingly endless hot chocolate and/or mulled wine options?

Lines for major attractions are virtually non-existent, and hotel rates are at their lowest during the year. (Be sure to avoid spring fashion week when every hotel in town fills up. 2015 dates are March 4-11.)

Also prepare for a crush of people at the stores before Christmas, and a generally disappointing New Year’s Eve and/or Valentine’s Day—they aren’t quite as festive as you’d think!

Late June in Paris brings sun to the banks of the Seine. Photo: sagarmin

I love Paris in the summer, when it sizzles…

Hot and sticky, but absolutely delightful, Paris in the summer can really be a treat. The Fête de la Musique keeps buskers and singers out all night on June 21, and Gay Pride seems like the city’s biggest party at the end of the month (this year on June 27, 2015).

Ice cream, picnics, and chilled rosé wine are just more reasons to come in the summer. No need for a stuffy museum when you can picnic your days away in any of the green oases around town or stroll endlessly throughout the city.

The downsides? Prices are generally at their highest for all of the major aspects of visiting, including hotels, flights and trains. May, June and July are particularly busy and expensive, while the city clears out in August, which ushers in a surprising drop in hotel rates.

The fact that some hotels and other buildings don’t have AC might also scare some away, but the city is generally pretty cool at night, and you can make up for that by picnicking nonstop. Also, many restaurants and shops close in August for their own summer break, so be prepared for a few disappointments. But I have a feeling you’ll have a memorable experience (and perhaps even come home with a tan!).

When do you love Paris?

Tell us your favorite time to visit Paris (and explain why!) in the comments section below.

]]>http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/best-time-year-visit-paris.html/feed00408586821 simple ways I saved on my trip to Londonhttp://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/21-london-budget-tips.html
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/21-london-budget-tips.html#commentsWed, 21 Jan 2015 10:14:03 +0000http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=40454You here it all the time from American travelers: “I’d love to visit London, but it’s just too expensive right now.” True, the British pound is still strong (especially compared to the plummeting euro), and the high prices on everything from eating out to taxis can add up fast. If dining at every Gordon Ramsay restaurant »Read more

]]>You here it all the time from American travelers: “I’d love to visit London, but it’s just too expensive right now.” True, the British pound is still strong (especially compared to the plummeting euro), and the high prices on everything from eating out to taxis can add up fast. If dining at every Gordon Ramsay restaurant and sipping cocktails at fancy bars is your style, it will obviously be tough to keep your budget low.

However, if you’re like me, and enjoy a more low-key but still very fun experience in the city, you don’t need to bring a suitcase full of cash. In fact, for a recent five-day visit, I spent just a little over £200 (around $300) for all of my non-hotel expenses, from the time I reached Victoria Station to the moment I left for Paris on the Eurostar. Throw in four nights at a budget hotel for another £244, and you have a surprisingly affordable trip to one of the world’s most expensive cities.

Before you start thinking this is impossible, there are a few key points to remember. First you need to score a cheap hotel in a central location and an affordable airfare.

But don’t forget all of the savings that automatically come with traveling abroad. As a New Yorker, I’m used to throwing down a handful of dollars for a round of beers, 20% on top of a $80 meal, and even a dollar tip if I pick up a nice cappuccino. In London, you can throw all of these rules out the window. The money you save on tips really adds up fast over the course of five days.

Plus, with free museums galore, cheap food easily available, and no need for spendy cabs in a very walkable city, you don’t need to spend a fortune to have a memorable London experience. Still need proof? Read on for all the details.

Celtic Hotel is charming, cheap and centrally located. All photos by Craig Nelson

1. Book a budget hotel in a great spot

EuroCheapo has plenty of great London budget hotels to choose from, but Cheapos are especially in love with the Celtic Hotel. I reserved four nights here for £244 (about $90 per night, tax included), an incredible bargain for the posh Bloomsbury neighborhood in central London. Not only do you get friendly service from owner Rosanna, but you also get a number of excellent and money-saving perks, like free WiFi and…

The full English breakfast at Celtic Hotel is the perfect way to start your morning.

2. Fill up with a free breakfast

Speaking of perks, the breakfast at the Celtic Hotel is legendary. And for good reason. Each morning you sit down to a hearty and delicious meal with juice, coffee or tea, cereal, yogurt, fresh fruit, as well as eggs, toast, and British favorites like mushrooms, grilled tomatoes and beans. Even bacon and sausage are available for the meat lovers. If you plan your meal right, you won’t be hungry until at least early afternoon or even dinner time!

A number of other London hotels on EuroCheapo also feature a complimentary full English breakfast like Luna & Simone and Arosfa Hotel.

Celtic Hotel is just around the corner from the Russell Square Tube station.

3. Choose your location wisely

Another benefit of the Celtic Hotel is that you can get to a lot of the top attractions in no time. The British Museum is only a five-minute walk through beautiful Russell Square. And when you do need to hop on the Tube with your luggage, Russell Square station is just around the corner. There’s no need for a taxi when you stay here.

St Pancras station is only a 15-minute walk from Celtic Hotel.

4. Walk, walk, and walk some more

I love to walk. It’s by far my preferred way of getting around when I’m traveling. You see so much more than cruising by in a taxi or underground on the subway. And even though the weather is usually a little grey, London is one of the finest walking cities in the world. Best of all, it was easy to walk across huge swaths of the city from where I was staying in Bloomsbury.

Most of the places I visited including Borough Market, Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, Millennium Bridge, British Library, Islington, Camden Town, and Tower of London were only a mile or two away. When it was time to head to my next destination (Paris), I was even able to hike up to St Pancras train station in about 15 minutes. Total cost of all these wonderful walks: £0.

Riding the bus is more fun and a lot cheaper than taking the Tube.

5. Hop on a double-decker city bus

In New York, I never leave home without my unlimited MetroCard, so it was a challenge to resist jumping on the Underground every time I walked by a station. However, I quickly learned that I didn’t have to give up on public transit altogether. Instead I just hopped on a famous double-decker bus. Not only can you grab a sweet view from the top deck, but you’ll save a little bit when compared to the Tube. When you use an Oyster Card, bus rides cost only £1.50 compared to at least £2.90 on the Tube.

Speaking of the Oyster Card, I was able to get everywhere I needed to go in five days with just £15 on mine. You have to pay a small fee to buy it up front, but then you can save the card for future trips to London.

A nice view of the ancient Roman city walls from the free Museum of London.

6. Go to free museums

Another big money-saver in London: You can see some of the world’s best collections of art, history and culture for FREE. During this trip I took in the British Museum, City of London Museum and the British Library.

That’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the free museums in London, but it still provided me with hours of entertainment at absolutely no cost. You can spend days staring at cultural treasures like the Rosetta Stone and original Beowulf manuscripts. One day, I did pay a €10 supplement to see a fantastic exhibit called Terror and Wonder: The Gothic Imagination at the British Library.

Seeing the Tower of London is impressive from the outside. And cheaper than the pricey admission fee.

7. Admire pricey attractions from the outside

You don’t always have to go inside of a pricey landmark to have a memorable experience. I happened to be in town when the Tower of London poppies display was in full bloom. This tribute to World War I veterans was a stirring sight with the bright colors of the ceramic flowers contrasting with historic stone walls of the tower. Instead of shelling out €22 for an admission ticket, I joined the huge crowds that were there to remember their fallen soldiers. Refreshingly, it was mostly locals who were out to see the poppies, and I was able to chat with some Brits to get their take on this emotional scene.

An evening stroll across Millennium Bridge was a (free) highlight of my trip.

8. Stroll across Millennium Bridge

After a few pints and some fish and chips, an evening stroll is just what you need to end the day in London. My advice is to head to the river walk along South Bank and then cross over the Thames on the Millennium Bridge. It lights up when the sun goes down, and you don’t have to worry about squeezing onto a sidewalk with hundreds of other tourists — it was virtually empty around 8 pm. With the gorgeous St. Paul’s Cathedral hovering in the background, this Sunday night walk was a highlight of my trip.

9. Spend Sunday at the Columbia Road Flower Market

I’m not usually an early riser, but the Columbia Road Flower Market is a lovely way to spend a Sunday morning. This year-round market in East London offers a dash of local color to your weekend. Grab a coffee at one of the small cafes and listen to the vendors hawk their plants. Sure, you can’t bring bring fresh flowers back home on the plane, but a few colorful photos make sweet smelling souvenirs.

Take a weekend walk along Regent’s Canal to Camden Lock Market.

10. Explore the canals

If you get tired of walking the city streets, hop onto the trails that hug the city’s canals. Regent’s Canal is a hidden path where you can experience the city from a very different angle. Not only will you see hundreds of cute house boats and interesting public art, but you’ll be free from any cars zipping by. Along the canals, there’s no need to make sure you look right instead of left!

Taking a scenic break at the top of Primrose Hill.

11. Chill out in a park

London is famous for its large swaths of open green spaces, and few cities can compare to its park-to-concrete ratio. Make sure to spend at least one afternoon or morning relaxing in a famous London refuge like Hyde Park, Hampstead Heath, or Greenwich Park. For extra bonus points, climb to the top of Primrose Hill (adjacent to Regent’s Park) for stunning skyline views.

12. Spend a night writing postcards

Instead of spending money on a show or concert, I chose to spend a quiet evening at the historic Lamb pub. I found a cozy table, ordered a pint and dashed off some cards to friends and family back home. It’s one of the benefits of getting out on the road and disconnecting from your gadgets. I met a few locals and had some time to reflect on my trip and plan what else I wanted to do before I left. This relaxing night on the town cost a whopping £4.

Roaming around Borough Market is rewarded with tasty snacks and free samples.

13. Fill up on free samples

Wherever you may wander in London, try to plot a course for one of the many food markets across the city. After a lovely walk to Primrose Hill, I strolled the canals to Camden Lock Market on a Saturday where the Global Kitchen vendors offered an incredible selection of international eats. The next day I trekked across the Thames to Borough Market, which was celebrating the annual Apple Festival.

There was no need for lunch on either day, because I tried free tastes of everything from cave-aged English cheese and local smoked meats to Jamaican jerk chicken and Indian naan wraps. Some of the samples were huge!

Diwana offers a delicious special of Indian meals every night of the week.

14. Feast for £6.60

You might not find four-star atmosphere, but the Indian food served up at Diwana is fantastic. This busy spot near Euston Station offers a daily £6.60 dinner special, even on the weekends. I was very happy with my Sunday night meal of Muttar Paneer (pea and cheese curry), fresh paratha (grilled flatbread), raita and salad. Plus, it scores extra cheapo points for its BYOB policy.

15. Save on an upscale lunch (by sitting at the bar)

Since my mission was to spend wisely, I didn’t hit up any fancy restaurants for a blow out dinner. But that doesn’t mean I still didn’t eat well. For a more upscale lunch, you can visit St. John Restaurant, and sit in the bar section that’s open all day. Order a couple of small plates (£6-9 each) from the bar, and chow down on their famous roast bone marrow and parsley salad, or the mussels, leeks and salsify. It won’t be your cheapest meal of the trip, but it just might be your tastiest.

Wenlock Arms is a neighborhood favorite in Hackney for great cask ales and homemade food.

16. Get to know the neighborhood pubs

I love a good drink, and there’s no place like the pubs of London to enjoy a sip of ale. Surprisingly, the beer was not only bigger (20 oz.) than in New York bars, but it was also cheaper, even with the currency conversion! Many pubs offer lovely stouts, bitters and brown ales for around £3.50 ($5.25). Not bad at all since you don’t have to throw in an extra buck or two on top for the tip. I ventured outside the city center to local gems like Wenlock Arms and King’s Head Pub & Theatre.

Cittie of Yorke pours cheap pints of cask ale all day and night.

17. Grab a Cheapo pint in an historic tavern

I also found a great deal on pints in some surprising places. Two popular landmark pubs, Cittie of Yorke and Princess Louise, were both serving special €2.90 pints of Samuel Smith pulled from wooden casks. That’s a tiny price to pay for a pint of excellent beer that you can enjoy in a marvelous historic interior.

Keep an eye out for unique snacks when exploring local markets.

18. Satisfy your snack attacks

Keep an eye out for local delicacies that make the perfect afternoon snack. Since I started each day with a huge breakfast, lunch was usually an afterthought. But when my stomach started to rumble I’d grab some homemade pasties or scones for (£2-3) or keep an eye out for something tasty.

For example I found a local shop named Lee’s Seafood near the Columbia Flower Market that was selling a special Sunday sandwich. It was packed with two delicious Cumbrian sausages, caramelized onions and rocket (“arugula” back in the States) for only £3.

19. Stock up at the supermarket

Supermarket prices at big-name chains like Sainsbury are very fair, especially when compared to New York. A huge bottle of sparkling spring water was going for 90 pence, and most of the scrumptious chocolate bars could be had for anywhere between 35 – 60 p. I dare you to try to buy a bottle of Perrier and two gourmet chocolate bars for $2.50 back in the States!

A crispy plate of fish and chips at Golden Union in Soho.

20. Don’t forget the classic fish and chips

To keep my budget in check, I stuck to classic British fare. Of course you can find British fare the world ’round, but somehow fish and chips just tastes better in London. For takeaway, you can try local shops like Kennedy’s where you can get a “small” (which could easily feed two) for about £6 or £7.

For something a little more fancy then your typical chip shop, Golden Union in Soho offers a range of fish from rock salmon, haddock and cod that are all local and sustainable. They even bake homemade pies. You can get either with a huge pile of chips for about £11.

21. Bring home unique cheapo souvenirs

Instead of typical tourist souvenirs, I tend to pick up a random assortment of items when I travel. In London I found a sturdy shopping bag at Borough Market, a bag of tea from a local shop, and a book at the newly renovated Foyle’s. Even if you don’t buy anything at the bookshop, it’s a great place to browse and escape the rain or hustle and bustle of the city. There’s a beautiful cafe on the top floor, and the public restrooms come in handy when you’re in and around Soho.

]]>http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/21-london-budget-tips.html/feed004045495What the strong US dollar means for Americans traveling to Europe this yearhttp://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/dollar-roars-back-making-europe-great-deal-us-travelers.html
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/dollar-roars-back-making-europe-great-deal-us-travelers.html#commentsThu, 15 Jan 2015 13:15:39 +0000http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=40779Americans traveling to Europe this year will finally have a little relief at the register, or at least a smile on their faces when they examine their credit card statements once they get home. The euro has fallen significantly against the dollar in the past six months, tumbling down to US $1.17 for 1 euro »Read more

]]>Americans traveling to Europe this year will finally have a little relief at the register, or at least a smile on their faces when they examine their credit card statements once they get home. The euro has fallen significantly against the dollar in the past six months, tumbling down to US $1.17 for 1 euro as of yesterday, a level not seen since 2006.

This exchange rate brings it back to its valuation when the currency debuted in 1999. But wait, there’s more: According to news reports yesterday, Goldman Sachs predicts that the euro could drop to $1.08 by the end of 2015, and be equal to the dollar by the end of 2016 (something that hasn’t happened since the euro’s biggest dip in 2002).

This is quite a change for a currency that was valued as high as $1.60 during the summer of 2008, and hovered in the $1.30s for much of last year.

Price drop for US travelers

So what does this mean for US travelers to the Eurozone countries? Certain things are obvious: Everyday charges will be cheaper, in dollar terms. Some examples of how this might affect your trip:

You get the picture: Americans have much more buying power in Eurozone countries. And you don’t need to go all the way back to 2008 to see dramatic savings, as the euro was nearly $1.40 as recently as the spring of 2014.

A quick refresher: As of January 2015, the euro is the official currency in the following 19 countries:

Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Spain. It is also used as a currency in Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City.

But wait: Switzerland just got more expensive

Meanwhile, Switzerland is (as always) a different story. Just today the country’s central bank removed a limitation on how low the euro could trade against the Swiss franc. This move is currently pushing the Swiss franc higher–and thus making the already pricey country even more expensive to visit for basically everyone in the world who isn’t Swiss.

What about airfare?

It will be interesting to see what effect, if any, this currency fluctuation will have on the price of airfare. Even with the dramatic plunge in the price of oil and gas, airfare prices have remained maddeningly expensive. It seems that the big carriers are cashing in on their savings, and paying for new fleets and improvements, rather than passing on the savings to passengers.

Hopefully, some competition from the new low-cost carriers might bring a little competitive pressure into the US – Europe market. Stay tuned.

Our advice for US travelers

One piece of advice from the Cheapos: Hold off on pre-booking tours, rail passes, and other tickets through American-based agencies. Chances are you’ll be charged in dollars and they won’t be passing on the savings that the stronger dollar can bring to you. (They’ll probably be cashing in on it themselves!)

Instead, wherever possible, pay for things now in euros, and take advantage of the exchange rate. In this example, book your train tickets directly through the official European rail websites. (See tip #7 in this post, or just search online for “official railway site France”, and skip over the ads.)

And as far as sightseeing and other tickets go, you should probably just hold off on buying those until you’re on the ground. Not only will that give you more flexibility with your schedule, the dollar might even be stronger once you arrive.

Oh, and one more piece of advice for American travelers: It’s time to go.

Your thoughts: Is the currency change affecting your plans to travel to Europe?

American travelers, tell us about how this change is affecting your plans to head to Europe. And European and other non-US travelers, what impact, if any, is this having on your plans? Tell us in the comments section.